In just one week, Katy Hill will lace up her running shoes to take on the Great North Run, a challenge she’s undertaking to raise vital funds for Scott House — a place that became a lifeline for her family during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Katy’s daughter, Zara, was just nine weeks old when she underwent complex surgery to remove a rare tumour that had been growing along her spinal cord. This is their story of strength, hope, and the incredible support they received from Scott House.
Zara’s birth was supposed to be a joyful occasion, but soon after, it became clear that something was terribly wrong. When Zara was just a few weeks old, doctors discovered a rare tumour growing along her spinal cord. The tumour, measuring 5 cm in size and located near her heart, was both life-threatening and urgent. Due to its size and the risk it posed, the tumour needed to be removed as soon as possible. The news was terrifying, and Katy and her husband, Martin, were plunged into an unimaginable situation — their newborn daughter needed major surgery, and the future felt uncertain.
Zara was transferred to The Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, where a team of skilled specialists worked tirelessly to remove the tumour. The surgery was successful, but the road to recovery was just beginning. Zara would need to stay in the hospital for two weeks as she recovered from the complex procedure. This was a critical time for both Zara and her parents, and being able to stay close to her was essential for their emotional well-being and her healing process.
That’s where Scott House, a “Home from Home” run by The Sick Children’s Trust, stepped in. Katy and Martin were given a place to stay at Scott House during Zara’s recovery, ensuring that they were never more than a few minutes away from their daughter. In those two weeks, Scott House became more than just a place to sleep — it became a sanctuary, a safe space that allowed the couple to stay close to Zara without the added stress of finding and paying for accommodation in a city far from home.
“We were able to stay together as a family, to be there for Zara every moment,” says Katy. “Scott House gave us a place to rest, but more importantly, it allowed us to be there for our daughter, supporting her and providing her with the comfort she needed. It made everything easier and allowed us to focus entirely on Zara’s recovery without worrying about where we would stay or how we would manage.”
During those difficult days, Scott House provided the Hill family with much-needed peace of mind. With comfortable rooms, kitchen facilities, and a welcoming environment, Katy and Martin were able to rest and recharge. It wasn’t just the physical support of having a safe place to stay; it was also the emotional support they received from the staff and the other families who were going through similar experiences. They didn’t feel alone. They felt supported, and that made all the difference in their ability to cope.
Now, as Zara continues to thrive, Katy is determined to give back to Scott House for the crucial role it played in their journey. Next Sunday, she will take on the Great North Run to raise funds for this invaluable charity. Katy’s run is not just about completing a personal challenge; it’s about ensuring that other families going through similar struggles can have the same support and comfort that they did.
“I’m running for all the families who need a place to stay when their child is undergoing treatment,” says Katy. “Scott House was there for us when we needed it most, and I want to do my part to make sure other families have that same opportunity.”
Through her participation in the Great North Run, Katy hopes to raise awareness of The Sick Children’s Trust and the life-changing support it provides to families with seriously ill children. Every step she takes will be a tribute to the kindness and generosity of Scott House, and to the resilience and strength of all the families who find themselves relying on its services during difficult times.
As the day of the Great North Run draws closer, Katy is filled with gratitude and determination. She is running for Zara, for all the families who need Scott House, and for the future that is now bright for her daughter. The road to recovery has been long, but with the love and support from The Sick Children’s Trust, Zara is thriving, and Katy is running to ensure that other families can experience that same sense of hope and security.
Please consider supporting Katy’s efforts and The Sick Children’s Trust to help more families stay close to their children when they need it most. Your contribution will make a real difference.